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Do You Have the Brains for Marriage?

What do a brain scan and your marriage have in common? Read my review below of Dr. Earl Henslin’s fantastic book, “This is Your Brain on Joy” to find out…

For me, the measure of excellent non-fiction literature is when one begins to see the world through the lens that the author provides. I recently completed reading Dr. Earl Henslin’s This is Your Brain on Joy. And, I was hooked from the first chapter when he described how he has come to incorporate technology (brain imaging) in his clinical treatment of thirty couples who were headed towards divorce.

My area of specialty is marriage. I have gone through much training on various marriage enhancement methods. But, when Dr. Henslin commented that twenty-nine of the thirty couples turned their marriages around by following the procedures to get brain scans (SPECT) and following the prescribed psychotherapy and medicinal regimen I was clamoring for more information. And, This is Your Brain on Joy delivers “in spades.”

First, let me be clear. This book is primarily about the power of brain imaging to unearth the “abnormalities” that make our brains function at less than God’s ideal when He first created us. While I have had some exposure to brain physiology during my own clinical training, I have never seen such an excellent effort at breaking highly technical terminology into language that can be understood by everyone. By substituting friendly, intuitive language (e.g., Basement of Giant Fears) to represent brain physiology (e.g, Basal Ganglia) Dr. Henslin is able to communicate the intricacies of the brain in a way that makes common sense. More importantly, the reader is able to identify his/her own areas of strength and weakness. Speaking of this, the book also includes an assessment that helps to identify how one’s own life experiences are indelibly interconnected with one’s brain health.

This book challenges all of us to think twice in our tendencies to be judgmental. He argues for more compassionate engagement because people are often held hostage by their brains. But, Dr. Henslin’s book doesn’t just point out the problem. He proceeds to offer natural, herbal remedies for many of the brain imbalances that are nothing short of miraculous from the testimonials included in the book. In some instances, prescription agents such as antidepressants may be suggested as well. The testimonies of people whose entire lives have changed (when they thought change was impossible) simply by following through with a brain scan and herbal or prescription medications.

I highly recommend this book because I have become convinced that many of the unhealthy behavioral patterns in our lives and in our marriages are a result of brain trauma that we may not even remember from years earlier. The results appear clear. Healthy lives and marriages require healthy brains. And, sometimes prayer alone may not improve the situation as much as if it was accompanied by a brain scan, the right herbal combinations, and a little encouragement.

Disclosure of Material Connection: Some of the links in the post above are “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will add value to my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

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"Dr. Arnold is a phenomenal speaker who brings new life to best practices in marriage enrichment. My wife and I are constantly challenged to take our personal lives and marriage to the next level. Dr. Arnold has certainly raised the bar. ~ Thanks, Jason & Vanessa

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About Dr. Harold Arnold

I am the author of Marriage ROCKS for Christian Couples and the accompanying Leader's Guide, both published by Judson Press.

As a Social & Organizational psychologist who is also trained as a Marriage and Family therapist, I help families reach their dreams--not necessarily in terms of just money or things--but in those relational areas that ultimately matter most.

I help leaders build what I call "relational equity" in homes, workplaces, and ministries by encouraging individuals, teams, and congregations to tap into their true inner strengths and their higher calling.

Most importantly, I encourage you to assert yourself as an influential leader in your home, workplace, and ministry.

Black and Married With Kids
Lamar and Ronnie Tyler are inspirational trendsetters, utilizing video and blogging as a medium for transforming African American marriages. Check out their award winning website that is both educational and entertaining.http://www.blackandmarriedwithkids.comHouse on the Rock Family Ministries
Dr. Bruce and Karen continue to develop innovative ways to help every aspect of family life. Their zeal helps keep me excited too.http://www.hotrfm.orgInverse Ministries
Clint and Penny are marriage missionaries with an amazing story of forgiveness, redemption, and humility. They inspire me every time I speak with them. Their 40-day marriage mission trips across the U.S. is amazing to witness.http://www.inverseministries.orgNicole Cleveland
Nicole is an inspiration. It just takes 30 seconds talking to her to realize that. While her credits as an author and speaker are impressive, I'm most touched by the way she uses her own transparency to help others find healing from abuse.http://nicolecleveland.comSheila Wray Gregoire
Sheila's website is chock full of resources for both leaders and moms. I really like her humor and down to earth style and her seemingly endless source of helpful advice.http://www.sheilawraygregoire.comTwogether Marriages
Deidra and Dwight Roussaw know travel for couples. When I need to talk to someone about planning or ideas for a travel-related event for couples the first call is always to them.http://www.twogethermarriages.blogspot.com

About Me

This is the question that I have asked many of my family, friends, and those who have trusted me in various leadership roles. The word that I most frequently hear is “teacher“.

Initially, I wondered if “teacher” aptly captures my complex array of interests and aspirations. But, the more I think about it, the more I have come to embrace myself as an educator. After all, I love to learn. Some of this is evident in my academic journey that has culminated in my doctorate in Psychology and Master’s degree in Marriage and Family therapy.